THE BACK-YARD MECHANIC. PART 7. EMISSION CONTROL DEVICES. (FIRST OF TWO ARTICLES)

The air pollution problem and its alleviation through auto emission control devices are reviewed. Procedures to accompany those in the service manual are outlined for routine home maintenance of two earlier types of emission control systems. The operation of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system for reducing hydrocarbons (HC) is explained, and the function of the main component, the PCV valve, is described. Checking the PCV system, and doing most emission system work, is recommended as part of an oil change. The two types of PCV systems (closed and open) and their servicing are described. Other than routing of the clean air, the two systems are identical, with basically the same check procedures. Methods for cleaning the PCV valve are described; annual replacement of the valve is recommended. Air injection systems (General Motors' A.I.R. and Ford's Thermactor System) for reducing HC are also examined in terms of operation and maintenance. In addition to the air pump, the essential parts of the system are an anti-backfire device and a check valve to prevent exhaust backup. Replacement of the air filter every 12,000 mi. is recommended. It is noted that if an emission system is under warranty, the car should be inspected by a certified mechanic to keep the warranty in effect.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Published in HS-030 516, "The Back-Yard Mechanic," Volume 1, 1979, pp 28-32. Reprinted from Driver.
• Corporate Authors:

  Driver Magazine Staff

  AFISC/SEDD
  Norton AFB, CA  United States  92409
• Publication Date: 1979

Media Info

• Pagination: 5 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Air injection systems; Air quality management; Guidelines; Machine valves; Maintenance practices; Mechanics (Persons); Positive crankcase ventilation systems
• Old TRIS Terms: Positive crankcase ventilation
• Subject Areas: Maintenance and Preservation; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00371213
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: HS-030 523
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Mar 31 1983 12:00AM